Petrol chainsaws run on a two-stroke fuel mix and deliver more raw power, making them better suited to felling larger trees or working far from a power source. Cordless (battery) models run off a rechargeable battery pack, produce no exhaust fumes, and need less maintenance since there is no engine to service. For most garden tasks, a cordless saw is perfectly capable; for heavy or prolonged cutting, petrol tends to be the better fit.
Petrol, Cordless & Electric Chainsaws for Garden and Land
MacBlair stocks a range of chainsaws to cover everything from light garden maintenance to heavier felling and log work. Three main power types are available: petrol, cordless (battery), and corded electric. Each suits different situations. Petrol delivers the most cutting power and suits larger trees or work in remote areas away from a power supply. Cordless models are quieter and lower maintenance, with no fuel mixing, making them a practical choice for regular garden use. Corded electric saws are typically lighter and cost less to run, though they need a nearby socket and a cable trailing behind you.
Bar length and engine size are the two specs worth paying attention to before buying. The guide bar should be at least 5cm longer than the diameter of what you plan to cut, and petrol models are measured in cc: the higher the cc, the more power. Cordless models use voltage as the equivalent indicator, with higher voltage meaning more cutting capacity. Anti-vibration handles and tool-free chain tensioning are features worth looking for, both on safety grounds and for day-to-day comfort. Pair a new saw with a Grass Strimmer or Hedge Trimmer to cover the full range of outdoor cutting tasks.
Common uses include:
- Felling trees and processing logs for firewood
- Clearing fallen branches after storms
- Pruning larger limbs where a hand saw is too slow
- General garden clearance and site tidying
- Cutting timber lengths for Timber Decking or Sleeper projects
Safety equipment is not optional. Chainsaw trousers or chaps, a helmet with visor, cut-resistant gloves, eye protection, and sturdy footwear are all required when operating a saw. For domestic use on private property, no specific licence is needed in the UK, though training is strongly recommended before first use. Check the full Garden Equipment range for accessories and complementary outdoor power tools.
Chainsaw FAQ's
A good rule of thumb is to choose a guide bar at least 5cm longer than the diameter of the wood you plan to cut. For most garden trees and log work, a bar in the 30-40cm range covers the majority of tasks. Longer bars give more reach but add weight and are harder to control, so avoid going larger than you genuinely need.
For domestic use on your own private property, there is no legal licence requirement in the UK. However, if you plan to use a chainsaw as part of your work or on a commercial site, employers and site rules typically require proof of training and competence. Even for home use, taking a basic chainsaw safety course before first use is strongly recommended, as chainsaws carry a higher injury risk than most garden tools.
At a minimum, wear chainsaw trousers or chaps (which are designed to slow or stop the chain on contact), a safety helmet with face visor, cut-resistant gloves, eye protection, and sturdy protective footwear. Ear protection is also advisable, particularly with petrol models. Never operate a chainsaw without the correct PPE in place, even for short or routine tasks.
Keep the chain sharp and correctly tensioned at all times; a loose or blunt chain is both less effective and more dangerous. For petrol models, use fresh fuel mixed to the manufacturer's ratio and run the tank dry before storing the saw, as stale ethanol-blended petrol can clog the carburettor. Clean the bar and chain after each use and check the bar groove for debris. Cordless saws need less engine maintenance but the battery should be stored charged and away from extremes of heat or cold.